Life of a Pet Parent – My Little Pup’s Big World

Fall in love with a dog, and you set foot in another orbit, universe even, and experience not only bettered hues, but also enhanced rituals, rules, and an unparallel way of experiencing attachment. Before you welcome a furry, four-legged angel in your life, you cannot quite fathom altering your life for one. But as they strut and woof their way into your heart, you wouldn’t dare imagine living any other way. Petting, cuddling and pouring your heart out to your dog soothes the heart, mind and soul, and transcends the serenity and tranquil achieved by meditating even. Caring for and nurturing a dog is alike prayer for our soul.

My little pup - Koko

Pet parents adorn said title not in a playful way, but with sincerity and love. We pet parents genuinely care and believe in the responsibilities of parenthood we have undertaken for our pets and consider them the most integral and loving members of our family. I consider myself blessed to have not only tasted, but relish and bask in a loving relation with my little pooch, Koko. Allow me to take you on a vivid journey of the life of a pet parent and make you acquainted with my little pup’s big world, so you too can experience the euphoric bliss a dog brings to your mind and soul.

Koko and I

Responsibilities as a Pet Parent

In addition to the yearly vaccinations and monthly grooming sessions, a number of responsibilities adorn you, as you take on the role of being a pooch’s parent. I use the word ‘adorn’ since executing these responsibilities and catering to the adorable needs of Koko, instills within me peace, and brings joy that knows no bounds to my mind and soul. If you are a Shih Tzu’s parent or plan on adopting one, here are some responsibilities you’d have to undertake. But I assure you, these ‘responsibilities’ are not tasks, instead fun activities you and your little one will both enjoy. For every responsibility presents an opportunity for you and your pet to interact and grow together.

1. A Shih Tzu’s Morning Routine

With a soft bark and a nice stretch, Koko wakes up every morning as soon as I step out of bed. With his messy bed-hair and droopy, sleepy eyes, he follows me around the house. It’s never too early for Koko to get decked up and look sleek for the rest of the day.

Brushing Teeth: Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems. To cater to your dog’s oral hygiene use Dentapaste So Strong which contains tea tree oil, and a long toothbrush to keep those nasty tooth cavities at bay.

Combing Fur: Shih Tzu’s do look majestic and adorable with their thick fur swooping across the floor as they strut around. However, with that handsome coat comes the issue of knots. Ensure you use two brushes to comb your Shih Tzu’s fur. A moustache comb with fine teeth and a flat comb for their coat detangles the fur. A breathable coat must be maintained. There have been times I have forgotten to run a comb through my tresses, but never have I ever forgone a thorough brushing of Koko’s fur.

Cleaning Eyes: Shih Tzus are also prone to vision problems. Use a damp cotton to clean their eyes so they don’t tear up.

Morning Walk: If it wasn’t for Koko, I would’ve never gone for a walk, especially during the lockdown. He puts on his leash like a champ and wags his tail ecstatically, as he hurries out for a walk. Koko believes it is mandatory, almost as if he were legally bound, to sniff ever single nook and corner we pass by. God forbid he misses a spot; I assure you he drags me back to investigate the overlooked nook and is only then relieved.

Shih Tzu Essentials

2. Time to Accessorise

Bows, ties, studded clips and crowns, Koko loves the Bling. His signature ponies call for a little dazzle and shimmer. Whilst we human beings lazy around in our sweats with unkept hair, Koko is hot to trot every morning with his brushed coat and accessorised look.

3. A Shih Tzu’s Diet

Our household’s every member is a pure vegetarian. My mother would never cook meat and never intended on doing so. However, for a dog there are no rules that can’t be bent. Different utensils were bought to boil eggs and chicken for Koko every day. Some of his other favourites are Royal Canin and boiled pumpkin. Boiled potato and vanilla ice-cream are the occasional treats he gobbles down.

Shih Tzu Dog Food

4. Shih Tzu Self Care

If you think human being s’ self care is exhausting, pet s’ needs transcend ours by a colossal amount. My little pooch visits a groomer every month and gets his fur trimmed, nails clipped, and paws massaged from Pet Pamperer who have some of the most skilled and reliable groomers.

5. Playtime

Every moment with Koko is playtime. Every time I comb his fur, feed him or walk him, I forget my worries, and am all consumed by his goofy smile and affectionate eyes. His evening walks and playing fetch is a must. Every time he leaps towards me, wagging his tail, overwhelms me.

People often yearn for a dog but are discouraged from adopting one due to the responsibilities that come with it. They often perceive the nature of the responsibilities to be time-consuming and life-altering. Well, I for one can say that every task I perform with Koko fills my life with joie de vivre. In many ways Koko has made me a well-rounded being. Dogs live for the day, the hour, the moment even. Once a dog starts giving you his unconditional love, there’s no adversity you cannot face head on. Your four-legged companion ameliorates sadness and transposes it with cuddles, an ideal circumstance to cheer you up when you feel down in the dumps.

Never did I ever expect him to be,

My little dog, a heartbeat at my feet;

Happiness is a warm puppy,

Forever and always, my best buddy.